Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians

People in this career drive emergency vehicles and assist in moving patients who are ill or injured. Daily activities center around operating vehicles, performing physical tasks, and caring for others. Workers must monitor their surroundings, identify critical events, and document information accurately.

This role requires a realistic interest style, meaning workers enjoy practical, hands-on tasks. Key skills include active listening, critical thinking, service orientation, and operation and control. Success in this job relies on knowledge of transportation, public safety, customer service, and basic medicine. Drivers and attendants must display dependability, stress tolerance, self-control, and empathy while maintaining cooperation with patients and medical staff.

Entering this field typically requires a high school diploma. Most workers need some on-the-job training or prior experience to prepare for the role. Students interested in this path often major in allied health and medical assisting services.

While requirements vary, some states list a license for this work. Professionals can also earn certifications to demonstrate their skills. Examples of these credentials include Coaching the Emergency Vehicle Operator from the National Safety Council, EMS Safety from the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, and the Disaster Information Specialization - Level II from the Medical Library Association.

The median annual pay for ambulance drivers and attendants is $35,450. The lowest 10% of earners make less than $27,350, while the highest 10% earn more than $45,960.

There are 12,630 people employed in this occupation. Employment is projected to decline by -1.3% from 2025 to 2035. Despite this slight decline, the field is expected to have 1,400 job openings each year.